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Breaking The Fall
- GenresRomance
303 pages, Paperback
Published January 5, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
January 28, 2026
Darby's character reminds me of someone who has been beaten down emotionally so much that she believes she is worthless, that no one could possibly love her. That she is a complete failure. She literally throws herself into everything she does in order to prove she isn't a failure. After being fired from her job she decides to go back to her childhood home to hide and lick her wounds hoping her parents, especially her mom doesn't find out she is there. Her mom is the worst and one of the reasons that Darby feels the way she does. While there, Darby decides to volunteer for the SAR team. When she shows up for training she realizes that her team leader is Cole her ex boyfriend, another person who makes her feel unloved, worthless and not worth fighting for. Cole broke her heart when he broke up with her for no apparent reason, at least that is what Darby thought. Boy was she wrong! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Cole's character is really just as messed up as Darby's is. Cole is the man that holds everything together for everyone but himself, he is too busy taking care of everyone else. Cole broke up with Darby because he didn't want to hold her back from her dreams, 7 years later he is still in love with her and wants to try and win her back. This is a story about two people who do everything wrong yet strive to get it right. Thru SAR training, rescues, old and new friends they try and find their HEA. Really good book!
January 29, 2026
This book really stayed with me long after I finished it.
It tells the story of a strong but broken woman who’s been carrying a lot of pain for a long time. She ends up back in a place she once thought as home, forced to face family issues she’s spent years avoiding, and honestly… it feels real. Messy, complicated, and emotional in a way that makes you want to hug the main character and shake her at the same time.
What I loved most is how human she feels. She isn’t perfect. She makes bad choices. She shuts people out. But she keeps going. Watching her slowly work through her trauma and start to figure out who she is again is both heartbreaking and inspiring.
Then there’s the man she loved seven years ago. Their reunion isn’t overly dramatic — it’s quiet, awkward, and full of unresolved feelings. You can feel how much history they share in every interaction.
The family dynamics hit hard. The book doesn’t sugarcoat how damaging family can be, even when love exists. Healing isn’t easy or fast, and I appreciated that the author didn’t try to wrap everything up in a neat bow. Some wounds don’t disappear — you just learn how to live with them.
By the end, it isn’t about everything magically being fixed. It’s about growth. About choosing yourself. About realizing you deserve love, peace, and a second chance.
If you like emotional, character-driven stories about healing, second chances, and finding your way back to both love and yourself, this one is definitely worth picking up.
It tells the story of a strong but broken woman who’s been carrying a lot of pain for a long time. She ends up back in a place she once thought as home, forced to face family issues she’s spent years avoiding, and honestly… it feels real. Messy, complicated, and emotional in a way that makes you want to hug the main character and shake her at the same time.
What I loved most is how human she feels. She isn’t perfect. She makes bad choices. She shuts people out. But she keeps going. Watching her slowly work through her trauma and start to figure out who she is again is both heartbreaking and inspiring.
Then there’s the man she loved seven years ago. Their reunion isn’t overly dramatic — it’s quiet, awkward, and full of unresolved feelings. You can feel how much history they share in every interaction.
The family dynamics hit hard. The book doesn’t sugarcoat how damaging family can be, even when love exists. Healing isn’t easy or fast, and I appreciated that the author didn’t try to wrap everything up in a neat bow. Some wounds don’t disappear — you just learn how to live with them.
By the end, it isn’t about everything magically being fixed. It’s about growth. About choosing yourself. About realizing you deserve love, peace, and a second chance.
If you like emotional, character-driven stories about healing, second chances, and finding your way back to both love and yourself, this one is definitely worth picking up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 11, 2026
This was a beautiful second-chance romance. Darby grew up enduring verbal abuse from her mother, which deeply affected her self-worth and left her longing for someone who would truly fight for her. Cole is just as emotionally burdened—he’s the one who holds everyone else together, always taking care of others while neglecting himself.
Together, they confront their pasts, work through their struggles, and ultimately earn their happily ever after. I’ve definitely become a big fan of Henley’s lol!! I can’t wait for the next book—especially Vicky’s story.
Together, they confront their pasts, work through their struggles, and ultimately earn their happily ever after. I’ve definitely become a big fan of Henley’s lol!! I can’t wait for the next book—especially Vicky’s story.
February 4, 2026
ARC -read. This was an ok book, a bit meh a bit whatever but overall ok. It was way to detailed in the search and rescue department where time could be spent on developing the characters more. I liked Dharby the FMC, the MMC not so much, he was really boring to be honest and did nothing för me. I am however a bit interested in seeing where the rest of the characters in the book goes in the continuation of the series.
January 29, 2026
I have to say I didn't know what to expect from this book. But I loved it!
The fast paced work of Search & Rescue intertwined with a steamy second-chance love story was just the perfect combination to keep me unable to put this book down.
Looking forward to reading the next in the series!
The fast paced work of Search & Rescue intertwined with a steamy second-chance love story was just the perfect combination to keep me unable to put this book down.
Looking forward to reading the next in the series!
January 21, 2026
I love a good book about second chances. Sometimes things are meant to fall apart so that they can fall back together. Reading Cole and Darbys story really did something to me. I have always been that person that feels like no matter how I try, I will never be enough, that I’m not worthy of love. And Cole, man, he wins boyfriend of the year. Other than making hard choices that were never his to begin with. I’m also guilty of pushing people away so that it hurts less when they do eventually. Honestly, this book gave me some clarity about my own life, and maybe, like Darby, I just some therapy.
January 15, 2026
I had such a good time reading this book—like, seriously. I wasn’t expecting to love the author’s humour this much, but by the second page I had already snorted twice. Yes, this is a romance book, but it also has a much deeper meaning.
Both MCs have to work through their own “baggage,” and the ending was sooooo satisfying. The drama wasn’t overdone, but it also wasn’t nonexistent. That balance really worked for me. Though I will say… there were quite a few ankles injured in the making of this story—if you know, you know.
If you’re after a quick read with an emotional romance (not just physical), I genuinely think you’ll enjoy this. Please check the trigger warnings before reading; there is some spice, along with references to addiction and other heavy themes.
Both MCs have to work through their own “baggage,” and the ending was sooooo satisfying. The drama wasn’t overdone, but it also wasn’t nonexistent. That balance really worked for me. Though I will say… there were quite a few ankles injured in the making of this story—if you know, you know.
If you’re after a quick read with an emotional romance (not just physical), I genuinely think you’ll enjoy this. Please check the trigger warnings before reading; there is some spice, along with references to addiction and other heavy themes.
January 19, 2026
Darby and Cole’s story is one from ups and downs. A second chance story with great characters struggles, trust is difficult after what happend before.
However Darby has a strong personality and gives it her all with everything she does . Hot scenes and a happy ending
However Darby has a strong personality and gives it her all with everything she does . Hot scenes and a happy ending
January 19, 2026
It was a sweet, pull at your heart, and realistic love story. one that some could relate too. I loved the development of the characters. 4 stars only because I felt a few more characters personally could've played a bigger role to excentuate the book.
January 13, 2026
This was a great second chance romance. The characters were great and the story was perfect.
I loved that it felt real like I could know the characters in real life.
I loved that it felt real like I could know the characters in real life.
February 5, 2026
When I was chosen to be part of the arc team for this book. And I can honestly say I was skeptical if I was going to actually enjoy this book.
I was so hooked come the second chapter I couldn’t put the book down.
This is a heartbreaking story
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Slow burn to level 4 spicy 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
He falls first🤭
First Person POV
Protective MMC🥵
Steamy Second Chance Romance❤️🩹❤️🩹
Suspenseful wilderness emergencies🆘
Small town charm with atmospheric outdoor scenes 🏘️
Medical rescues and suspense⛑️❤️🔥
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Gave this book 4.9
Darby was in love with Cole and he broke her heart making her think she wasn’t worthy of love so she left and build a future for her self 7 years later she lost her job and went back to crystal lake and was staying in her moms cabin hiding away. deciding to join the SAR team and got accepted to do so. Until the first day and her SAR team leader is no one other then Cole. The one who shattered her heart 7 year ago when he broke up with her with no explanation and now she had to deal with him. She always thought she wasn’t worthy of love and her mother drilled that in her head she wasn’t good enough she was the worst. Darby was a damaged girl from her mom to Cole. But she never got over Cole no matter how hard she tried.
Cole was still in love with Darby and finely tells her why he broke up with her and didn’t try to get her to stay. She told him she was accept to Stanford and that same night he broke up with her so he wasn’t holding her back so she could go and make her dreams come true which she did but left her lonely and struggling. Cole is a great character in this book he is strong and protective of his family and her and it’s so sweet. They got a second change to make the love of his life fall back in love with him and he isn’t going to let her go this time or so we thought.
But Darby found her home where she least expected and SAR team made her more happier then her coding career. The team mates felt like family and even tho her and Cole did everything wrong there try to make everything right between them to reach there happily ever after.
Enjoyed the spicy parts of this book. It was a lot but it’s was in my opinion just the right amount! Definitely had that deep love in every sense!! They were made for each other.
I honestly was sad that this story stop I wanted so much more. But hopefully it will continue in the next book which I cannot wait to read it. I hope to read more bout Cole and Darby. But want to know more about Vicki (darbys bff) 🖤🖤🖤🖤
Thank you so much for allowing me to be on ur arc team. I enjoyed it and ur book so much :)
I was so hooked come the second chapter I couldn’t put the book down.
This is a heartbreaking story
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Slow burn to level 4 spicy 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
He falls first🤭
First Person POV
Protective MMC🥵
Steamy Second Chance Romance❤️🩹❤️🩹
Suspenseful wilderness emergencies🆘
Small town charm with atmospheric outdoor scenes 🏘️
Medical rescues and suspense⛑️❤️🔥
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Gave this book 4.9
Darby was in love with Cole and he broke her heart making her think she wasn’t worthy of love so she left and build a future for her self 7 years later she lost her job and went back to crystal lake and was staying in her moms cabin hiding away. deciding to join the SAR team and got accepted to do so. Until the first day and her SAR team leader is no one other then Cole. The one who shattered her heart 7 year ago when he broke up with her with no explanation and now she had to deal with him. She always thought she wasn’t worthy of love and her mother drilled that in her head she wasn’t good enough she was the worst. Darby was a damaged girl from her mom to Cole. But she never got over Cole no matter how hard she tried.
Cole was still in love with Darby and finely tells her why he broke up with her and didn’t try to get her to stay. She told him she was accept to Stanford and that same night he broke up with her so he wasn’t holding her back so she could go and make her dreams come true which she did but left her lonely and struggling. Cole is a great character in this book he is strong and protective of his family and her and it’s so sweet. They got a second change to make the love of his life fall back in love with him and he isn’t going to let her go this time or so we thought.
But Darby found her home where she least expected and SAR team made her more happier then her coding career. The team mates felt like family and even tho her and Cole did everything wrong there try to make everything right between them to reach there happily ever after.
Enjoyed the spicy parts of this book. It was a lot but it’s was in my opinion just the right amount! Definitely had that deep love in every sense!! They were made for each other.
I honestly was sad that this story stop I wanted so much more. But hopefully it will continue in the next book which I cannot wait to read it. I hope to read more bout Cole and Darby. But want to know more about Vicki (darbys bff) 🖤🖤🖤🖤
Thank you so much for allowing me to be on ur arc team. I enjoyed it and ur book so much :)
February 2, 2026
Breaking the Fall – Audrey Buchanan
“I am going to die.”
And honestly? That opening line tells you everything you need to know about this book’s energy.
Breaking the Fall is a second-chance romance wrapped in adrenaline, grief, and unfinished love. Darby is freshly burned by the tech world—laid off, betrayed, and hollowed out—and impulsively joins a volunteer Search and Rescue team in her hometown, hoping physical danger might quiet the emotional wreckage. What she doesn’t expect is Cole Harper: her first love, the boy who shattered her heart seven years ago, now her SAR team leader.
What follows is a slow, emotionally charged collision between past and present. This isn’t a romance that rushes forgiveness. Audrey Buchanan lets the resentment breathe. The miscommunication hurts. The longing hurts worse. Every shared rescue, every almost-kiss, every quiet domestic moment is weighted with history and things left unsaid. Cole isn’t rewritten as a perfect man—he’s flawed, guarded, and painfully human—and Darby’s journey is just as much about reclaiming her worth as it is about falling back in love.
The SAR setting adds real stakes. The rescues are tense, visceral, and grounding, mirroring Darby’s internal fight to stop treating her own life as expendable. And when the romance finally ignites, the intimacy feels earned—raw, emotional, and deeply connected, not just physically but psychologically. This is one of those books where the love scenes don’t just turn up the heat; they crack characters open.
At its core, Breaking the Fall is about being seen—really seen—after failure, after abandonment, after believing you were easy to forget. It’s about love that never fully disappeared, only went quiet.
If you love:
second-chance romance
forced proximity
competent, protective MMCs
emotionally wounded FMCs
high-stakes settings + deep feelings
…this one will absolutely wreck you in the best way.
💔➡️❤️🩹 Highly recommend.
“I am going to die.”
And honestly? That opening line tells you everything you need to know about this book’s energy.
Breaking the Fall is a second-chance romance wrapped in adrenaline, grief, and unfinished love. Darby is freshly burned by the tech world—laid off, betrayed, and hollowed out—and impulsively joins a volunteer Search and Rescue team in her hometown, hoping physical danger might quiet the emotional wreckage. What she doesn’t expect is Cole Harper: her first love, the boy who shattered her heart seven years ago, now her SAR team leader.
What follows is a slow, emotionally charged collision between past and present. This isn’t a romance that rushes forgiveness. Audrey Buchanan lets the resentment breathe. The miscommunication hurts. The longing hurts worse. Every shared rescue, every almost-kiss, every quiet domestic moment is weighted with history and things left unsaid. Cole isn’t rewritten as a perfect man—he’s flawed, guarded, and painfully human—and Darby’s journey is just as much about reclaiming her worth as it is about falling back in love.
The SAR setting adds real stakes. The rescues are tense, visceral, and grounding, mirroring Darby’s internal fight to stop treating her own life as expendable. And when the romance finally ignites, the intimacy feels earned—raw, emotional, and deeply connected, not just physically but psychologically. This is one of those books where the love scenes don’t just turn up the heat; they crack characters open.
At its core, Breaking the Fall is about being seen—really seen—after failure, after abandonment, after believing you were easy to forget. It’s about love that never fully disappeared, only went quiet.
If you love:
second-chance romance
forced proximity
competent, protective MMCs
emotionally wounded FMCs
high-stakes settings + deep feelings
…this one will absolutely wreck you in the best way.
💔➡️❤️🩹 Highly recommend.
January 23, 2026
Breaking the Fall is a high-stakes ascent toward self-worth and forgiveness. In the contemporary romance space what more could you ask for… this read is a breath of fresh mountain air! Not only is it witty and fast paced but it is also suspenseful in the most jagged, heart-pounding way! What a fantastic read!
The world building is phenomenal! The characteristic of the action within feels well thought-out and researched, making it so easy to slip in and enjoy it! I was so caught up it felt like I was living out the scenes not just reading them! The action is high-powered and high-stakes and I loved every second!
The main Female characters journey is refreshingly relatable. Her journey isn’t just about second chances at love, it’s full of emotional and physical hurdles and obstacles that she must overcome, and only she herself can discover her self-worth again! She is full of grit and determination-I absolutely love the strong female lead!
The chemistry between the main female character and the main male character is all consuming tension filled steam! If you love forced proximity tropes, you must pick this read up! Breaking the Fall handles the second chance at love trope with maturity and grace. It not only addresses the reason for their breakup without making the tension feel arranged. The focus remains on the main characters growth in the here and now. It questions the idea that we must earn love or demonstrate our value through achievements, offering emotional recognition for us readers along for the ride.
My Final Verdict:
Breaking the Fall is a read that feels like the perfect blend of the precise, witty rugged, gripping atmosphere of an action novel with the soft, sweet, and seemingly romantic feels that come along with a romance novel. It deals with the heavy topics of surrender and secret-keeping but never loses the hopeful sequence that makes a great romance.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The world building is phenomenal! The characteristic of the action within feels well thought-out and researched, making it so easy to slip in and enjoy it! I was so caught up it felt like I was living out the scenes not just reading them! The action is high-powered and high-stakes and I loved every second!
The main Female characters journey is refreshingly relatable. Her journey isn’t just about second chances at love, it’s full of emotional and physical hurdles and obstacles that she must overcome, and only she herself can discover her self-worth again! She is full of grit and determination-I absolutely love the strong female lead!
The chemistry between the main female character and the main male character is all consuming tension filled steam! If you love forced proximity tropes, you must pick this read up! Breaking the Fall handles the second chance at love trope with maturity and grace. It not only addresses the reason for their breakup without making the tension feel arranged. The focus remains on the main characters growth in the here and now. It questions the idea that we must earn love or demonstrate our value through achievements, offering emotional recognition for us readers along for the ride.
My Final Verdict:
Breaking the Fall is a read that feels like the perfect blend of the precise, witty rugged, gripping atmosphere of an action novel with the soft, sweet, and seemingly romantic feels that come along with a romance novel. It deals with the heavy topics of surrender and secret-keeping but never loses the hopeful sequence that makes a great romance.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
January 29, 2026
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶🌶🌶
In “Breaking The Fall”, we have Cole & Darby in a gripping second chance action story. Cole and Darby were previously together in high school, but Darby left their small town with a broken heart with no explanation as to why.
7 years later, Darby returns home to rebuild herself after being let go from her big girl job and broken in more than one way. She randomly decides to try for the local Search and Rescue team, only to come face to face with Cole who’s her leader (well literally at his feet).
Darby and Cole are very relatable, especially Darby. Years of verbal abuse due to her mother, it will traumatize anyone. Cole, in his good intentions, learned a hard lesson with Darby. Taking control (unintentionally) of someone’s life is not the right way to go.
Darby’s consistency of taking control of what she considers weak, conquers it then moves on to the next thing is her established go to for all things in her life. Vicky, her best friend, justifiably calls her out for not being there for her friends, but expects everyone to be there for herself. Granted, she doesn’t mean to do it.
When you learn the reason why Cole shattered Darby’s heart, you understand it. That same reason is why there is a 3rd act “breakup” but what Darby truly wants is someone to fight FOR her.
Both Cole and Darby give each other misunderstandings, but ultimately they realize with self inflection that they both must communicate to each other to get their HEA.
*I will say I wanted to drop kick Emily, his sister. I also wanted to give Vicky a big hug and also a high five for calling Darby out.
All in all, 10/10 and I’m looking forward to Vicki’s story next!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Huge thank you!
Spice:🌶🌶🌶
In “Breaking The Fall”, we have Cole & Darby in a gripping second chance action story. Cole and Darby were previously together in high school, but Darby left their small town with a broken heart with no explanation as to why.
7 years later, Darby returns home to rebuild herself after being let go from her big girl job and broken in more than one way. She randomly decides to try for the local Search and Rescue team, only to come face to face with Cole who’s her leader (well literally at his feet).
Darby and Cole are very relatable, especially Darby. Years of verbal abuse due to her mother, it will traumatize anyone. Cole, in his good intentions, learned a hard lesson with Darby. Taking control (unintentionally) of someone’s life is not the right way to go.
Darby’s consistency of taking control of what she considers weak, conquers it then moves on to the next thing is her established go to for all things in her life. Vicky, her best friend, justifiably calls her out for not being there for her friends, but expects everyone to be there for herself. Granted, she doesn’t mean to do it.
When you learn the reason why Cole shattered Darby’s heart, you understand it. That same reason is why there is a 3rd act “breakup” but what Darby truly wants is someone to fight FOR her.
Both Cole and Darby give each other misunderstandings, but ultimately they realize with self inflection that they both must communicate to each other to get their HEA.
*I will say I wanted to drop kick Emily, his sister. I also wanted to give Vicky a big hug and also a high five for calling Darby out.
All in all, 10/10 and I’m looking forward to Vicki’s story next!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Huge thank you!
February 1, 2026
Cole and Darby’s story was quite a hard one to read and review…. Because, the characters really threw me, and I really struggled to get past their initial behaviour towards Darby.
Initially, this SAR crew are horrible. For people who apparently want to do good, there’s a whole lot of nasty going on. And I just wanted Darby to pack up and leave. A hostile work environment, especially when its volunteer based is not the place to be.
Darby was betrayed by pretty much everyone in her life, whether it though manipulation, neglect, or even in Cole’s place freezing her out and dumping her seven years ago.
Her mother…. Ugh!!!! Don’t even get me started.
She’s been treated so poorly by everyone in her life that she accepts the bare minimum (and the blame that they all want to put on her).
This was told, essentially from Darby’s POV, and she had my sympathy the entire way through. She’s not the traditional ‘strong’ FMC that we want, but she had her own style, and I was rootign for her the entire way through.
I knew that Cole was end game, but I really wish that he did some serious grovelling for the past (and the current dramas). Admittedly, he was messed up from his family situation, and what he did at the end was pretty good, but it wasn’t quite enough for me (I’m petty that way).
Her ‘friend’ Vicky… nah… not a fan. It’s easy to see that she has her won story coming up, and I’m hoping she’s a nicer character (and better friend) in that one.
Safety squad…
No cheating, they both had other aprtners during their separation (despite his claiims of ‘loving her’), A lot of frustrating back and forth, dangerous rescue situations (life a& death), nd substance abuse (not MMC/FMC).
Initially, this SAR crew are horrible. For people who apparently want to do good, there’s a whole lot of nasty going on. And I just wanted Darby to pack up and leave. A hostile work environment, especially when its volunteer based is not the place to be.
Darby was betrayed by pretty much everyone in her life, whether it though manipulation, neglect, or even in Cole’s place freezing her out and dumping her seven years ago.
Her mother…. Ugh!!!! Don’t even get me started.
She’s been treated so poorly by everyone in her life that she accepts the bare minimum (and the blame that they all want to put on her).
This was told, essentially from Darby’s POV, and she had my sympathy the entire way through. She’s not the traditional ‘strong’ FMC that we want, but she had her own style, and I was rootign for her the entire way through.
I knew that Cole was end game, but I really wish that he did some serious grovelling for the past (and the current dramas). Admittedly, he was messed up from his family situation, and what he did at the end was pretty good, but it wasn’t quite enough for me (I’m petty that way).
Her ‘friend’ Vicky… nah… not a fan. It’s easy to see that she has her won story coming up, and I’m hoping she’s a nicer character (and better friend) in that one.
Safety squad…
No cheating, they both had other aprtners during their separation (despite his claiims of ‘loving her’), A lot of frustrating back and forth, dangerous rescue situations (life a& death), nd substance abuse (not MMC/FMC).
February 11, 2026
BREAKING THE FALL by AUDREY BUCHANAN ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Breaking The Fall is the first (#1) book in the CRYSTAL LAKE SEARCH AND RESCUE series.
When Darby Hayes returns home to Crystal Lake, with her tail between her legs after being fired, she joins the local Search And Rescue team.
What she’s not prepared for is her team leader being none other than Cole Harper, the man who broke her heart some 7 years previous, and the reason she left Crystal Lake in the first place.
Darby must navigate not only her training, cliff rescues and cave extractions but also her unrequited feelings for Cole.……
——————————
This is the first book by Audrey Buchanan I have read and I certainly wasn’t disappointed!
I really enjoyed the pace of this story, it felt honest. The SAR scenes were well written and the peril was on point.
The two MC’s were great as were the side characters (especially the SAR crew). I would have liked to see some conclusion to Darby’s issues with her mother.
There was a delicious teaser at the end for the next book - really draws you in to want to know what will happen.
There are open door spicy scenes in this book but they are tastefully written. The emotional side of their relationship was the highlight and it was well written- you could relate to both MCs issues.
I read an ebook version of this book, with around 300 pages, great editing and a couples cover.
With thanks to Audrey Buchanan and Cracked Pepper Books for the chance to read this delightful book.
🧗 Second Chance Romance
🧗 Found Family
🧗 Slow Burn
🧗Spicy 🔥🔥🔥
🧗 MFC pov
Breaking The Fall is the first (#1) book in the CRYSTAL LAKE SEARCH AND RESCUE series.
When Darby Hayes returns home to Crystal Lake, with her tail between her legs after being fired, she joins the local Search And Rescue team.
What she’s not prepared for is her team leader being none other than Cole Harper, the man who broke her heart some 7 years previous, and the reason she left Crystal Lake in the first place.
Darby must navigate not only her training, cliff rescues and cave extractions but also her unrequited feelings for Cole.……
——————————
This is the first book by Audrey Buchanan I have read and I certainly wasn’t disappointed!
I really enjoyed the pace of this story, it felt honest. The SAR scenes were well written and the peril was on point.
The two MC’s were great as were the side characters (especially the SAR crew). I would have liked to see some conclusion to Darby’s issues with her mother.
There was a delicious teaser at the end for the next book - really draws you in to want to know what will happen.
There are open door spicy scenes in this book but they are tastefully written. The emotional side of their relationship was the highlight and it was well written- you could relate to both MCs issues.
I read an ebook version of this book, with around 300 pages, great editing and a couples cover.
With thanks to Audrey Buchanan and Cracked Pepper Books for the chance to read this delightful book.
🧗 Second Chance Romance
🧗 Found Family
🧗 Slow Burn
🧗Spicy 🔥🔥🔥
🧗 MFC pov
February 1, 2026
This is an engaging and action filled search and rescue romance. There is so much high-stakes action and SARs immersion (pretty sure I’m ready to go save lives too now). I was connected to and intrigued by the characters & their journeys. Single POV, 1st person. 300 pages. 3.5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3 spice
Loved the character ARC for the FMC. She’s strong and full of grit and flaws, and working hard emotionally and physically to rebuild herself. Her journey was beautiful (and painful). The romance was so nicely written and doesn’t rely on the spice to make the connection. Wish I had more of the support crew details/action but what we did have was entertaining and sets up for the next book nicely. The immersion into the search and rescue world is strong and so intriguing. I feel like I could join SARs now!
I had a hard time rating this. There are a few key things missing that would make this a 4 star. This is a big one for me: we use their past relationship as the basis for their chemistry, but we never explore it. We just go right into having chemistry without getting to read about it. I want the meet cute / the stories / the experience / the heartache, But this is a 300 page book, so…Second, there are a few plot fillers / story lines that have holes (eg if you leave a job, what happened to your apartment, where’s your stuff, etc). Tiny stuff that falls thru the cracks but doesn’t impact the story line but hurts my brain when reading.
Loved the character ARC for the FMC. She’s strong and full of grit and flaws, and working hard emotionally and physically to rebuild herself. Her journey was beautiful (and painful). The romance was so nicely written and doesn’t rely on the spice to make the connection. Wish I had more of the support crew details/action but what we did have was entertaining and sets up for the next book nicely. The immersion into the search and rescue world is strong and so intriguing. I feel like I could join SARs now!
I had a hard time rating this. There are a few key things missing that would make this a 4 star. This is a big one for me: we use their past relationship as the basis for their chemistry, but we never explore it. We just go right into having chemistry without getting to read about it. I want the meet cute / the stories / the experience / the heartache, But this is a 300 page book, so…Second, there are a few plot fillers / story lines that have holes (eg if you leave a job, what happened to your apartment, where’s your stuff, etc). Tiny stuff that falls thru the cracks but doesn’t impact the story line but hurts my brain when reading.
February 2, 2026
I'm in shock about Breaking the Fall. I went into it knowing absolutely nothing except for a few of the tropes, and was excited. But imagine my surprise, when those tropes are not only subverted in new and unexpected ways, but those twists aren't just added for the audience shock factor, it is necessary to move the plot forward and for character growth.
If you're looking for a major grovel in this second chance romance, you might be a little disappointed. Yet somehow this makes it better. There is growth and communication and follow through on the promises to be better, not just romantic gestures to make up for a seven-year miscommunication break up. The spice is also great in this novel, however, I'm still figuring out the logistics of car sex, it’s a head-scratcher for sure.
Audrey Buchanan outdid herself with this one and in a year of men who yearn, Cole Harper is a top-notch yearner and a hell of a Henley-obsessed leading man. As for the leading lady, Darby was relatable, and fun. The audience is able to follow through every heartbreak, every 911-esque moment of her life in a way, that sometimes, in all honestly, feels too real. I do wish we had an epilogue moment of her standing up to her mother, but I appreciate the struggle nonetheless. Overall, I love the world-building and the moments of setup to create the Crystal Lake Cinematic Universe and I can't wait to read what Buchanan does next.
If you're looking for a major grovel in this second chance romance, you might be a little disappointed. Yet somehow this makes it better. There is growth and communication and follow through on the promises to be better, not just romantic gestures to make up for a seven-year miscommunication break up. The spice is also great in this novel, however, I'm still figuring out the logistics of car sex, it’s a head-scratcher for sure.
Audrey Buchanan outdid herself with this one and in a year of men who yearn, Cole Harper is a top-notch yearner and a hell of a Henley-obsessed leading man. As for the leading lady, Darby was relatable, and fun. The audience is able to follow through every heartbreak, every 911-esque moment of her life in a way, that sometimes, in all honestly, feels too real. I do wish we had an epilogue moment of her standing up to her mother, but I appreciate the struggle nonetheless. Overall, I love the world-building and the moments of setup to create the Crystal Lake Cinematic Universe and I can't wait to read what Buchanan does next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2026
This book was so close to perfect for me.
The plot was strong, engaging, and emotionally grounded. From the beginning, I felt fully invested in the story and the direction it was heading. Everything unfolded in a way that felt intentional and well thought out, with tension and momentum that kept me turning pages.
The characters were outstanding. They felt real, layered, and easy to connect with. Their emotions, struggles, and growth were written beautifully, and I genuinely cared about what happened to them. The relationship development felt natural and earned, which made every moment hit harder.
The spice was good, but limited. The scenes that were there were well written and fit the story, but there were only a couple, and they stayed on the vanilla side. For me, spice only hits five stars when there is either more of it or it pushes beyond vanilla, whether through intensity or kink. That said, what was included worked well and never felt awkward or out of place.
The ending was excellent. It was satisfying, emotional, and wrapped things up in a way that felt complete while still leaving me excited for what is coming next. It absolutely stuck the landing.
Overall, Breaking the Fall was a fantastic read and easily one of my favorites. With a five-star plot, characters, and ending, it delivered almost everything I look for in a book. I am very excited to continue the series as the next installments are released and cannot wait to return to this world.
The plot was strong, engaging, and emotionally grounded. From the beginning, I felt fully invested in the story and the direction it was heading. Everything unfolded in a way that felt intentional and well thought out, with tension and momentum that kept me turning pages.
The characters were outstanding. They felt real, layered, and easy to connect with. Their emotions, struggles, and growth were written beautifully, and I genuinely cared about what happened to them. The relationship development felt natural and earned, which made every moment hit harder.
The spice was good, but limited. The scenes that were there were well written and fit the story, but there were only a couple, and they stayed on the vanilla side. For me, spice only hits five stars when there is either more of it or it pushes beyond vanilla, whether through intensity or kink. That said, what was included worked well and never felt awkward or out of place.
The ending was excellent. It was satisfying, emotional, and wrapped things up in a way that felt complete while still leaving me excited for what is coming next. It absolutely stuck the landing.
Overall, Breaking the Fall was a fantastic read and easily one of my favorites. With a five-star plot, characters, and ending, it delivered almost everything I look for in a book. I am very excited to continue the series as the next installments are released and cannot wait to return to this world.
February 7, 2026
** ARC Review Incoming **
Thank you to Audrey Buchanan and Cracked Pepper Books for allowing me to be part of the Arc Team and for giving me a free copy of this book.
I really really enjoyed this!!! It had so much packed into it!
The writing style took me a bit to get into but I think it’s because it wasn’t the final copy of the book. Once I got into it I couldn’t stop! I read it in 1 sitting and didn’t get to bed until 1am!!
Tue character building was brilliant! Both main characters are so relatable, no billionaires, pop stars or mafia bosses - this is essentially is a second chance romance built from the heartache of normal life. How people change, grow and deal with the tribulations of family, addiction and everything inbetween.
I loved the other characters! The author has written them well enough to spark curiosity and lay a foundation for more books to come.
I also loved the rescue detail! It helps to understand the characters but it’s also exciting and fun! There is a lot of descriptive writing about the training and rescues that some might find too much but I loved it! It made the book for me, complimented the romance and was interesting factor to centre the book around.
My reason for not giving it 5 stars was purely because I struggled with the first chapter. It didn’t flow well for me but after that it was great!!
I am very much looking forward to the next books in the series!
Thank you to Audrey Buchanan and Cracked Pepper Books for allowing me to be part of the Arc Team and for giving me a free copy of this book.
I really really enjoyed this!!! It had so much packed into it!
The writing style took me a bit to get into but I think it’s because it wasn’t the final copy of the book. Once I got into it I couldn’t stop! I read it in 1 sitting and didn’t get to bed until 1am!!
Tue character building was brilliant! Both main characters are so relatable, no billionaires, pop stars or mafia bosses - this is essentially is a second chance romance built from the heartache of normal life. How people change, grow and deal with the tribulations of family, addiction and everything inbetween.
I loved the other characters! The author has written them well enough to spark curiosity and lay a foundation for more books to come.
I also loved the rescue detail! It helps to understand the characters but it’s also exciting and fun! There is a lot of descriptive writing about the training and rescues that some might find too much but I loved it! It made the book for me, complimented the romance and was interesting factor to centre the book around.
My reason for not giving it 5 stars was purely because I struggled with the first chapter. It didn’t flow well for me but after that it was great!!
I am very much looking forward to the next books in the series!
January 29, 2026
Breaking the Fall by Audrey Buchanan is a second-chance romance wrapped in Search & Rescue gear and emotional damage (the good kind). Darby returns home after losing her job and joins the SAR team to rebuild herself—only to land face-first back into her past when her ex, Cole, turns out to be her team leader. Cue cliff rescues, unresolved heartbreak, and feelings doing parkour.
I really loved Darby’s journey from feeling completely worthless to slowly finding her strength again—she throws herself into SAR training like she’s trying to outrun her trauma. Cole, meanwhile, is the classic “holds everyone together except himself” hero, and once his real reason for leaving Darby comes out? Oof. Right in the heart. Boyfriend of the year… eventually.
Buchanan’s writing shines in the emotional moments and rescue scenes—they’re tense and immersive. A few internal struggles dragged a bit, but the chemistry and character growth kept me hooked.
Overall, this is a heartfelt story about two broken people doing everything wrong while trying desperately to get it right. Emotional, romantic, and surprisingly healing. Solid 4 stars—and yes, I may now need therapy, just like Darby.
I really loved Darby’s journey from feeling completely worthless to slowly finding her strength again—she throws herself into SAR training like she’s trying to outrun her trauma. Cole, meanwhile, is the classic “holds everyone together except himself” hero, and once his real reason for leaving Darby comes out? Oof. Right in the heart. Boyfriend of the year… eventually.
Buchanan’s writing shines in the emotional moments and rescue scenes—they’re tense and immersive. A few internal struggles dragged a bit, but the chemistry and character growth kept me hooked.
Overall, this is a heartfelt story about two broken people doing everything wrong while trying desperately to get it right. Emotional, romantic, and surprisingly healing. Solid 4 stars—and yes, I may now need therapy, just like Darby.
February 5, 2026
I absolutely loved diving into *Breaking the Fall*! Audrey Buchanan truly knows how to keep you engaged and eager to turn the pages. Right from the start, the book has you on the edge of your seat, brimming with anticipation! It strikes the perfect balance of romance, suspense, and action.
When Darby comes back home, seeking a fresh start, her present collides unexpectedly with her past. Guess what? Cole Harper, her high school sweetheart, is now the team leader of the Volunteer (SAR) team she’s training for!
All those unanswered questions finally find their resolution, leading to some profound realizations for both Darby and Cole. I really enjoyed watching not just the main characters grow, but the supporting ones too. I would have loved to see a bit more of their past relationship—like how it all began and a little more on what led to their split—but that’s just my personal take. I’m eagerly looking forward to more from this series and the characters yet to come! Huge thanks to Audrey and Booksirens for this ARC and the chance to experience this thrilling journey. Here’s my honest review!
When Darby comes back home, seeking a fresh start, her present collides unexpectedly with her past. Guess what? Cole Harper, her high school sweetheart, is now the team leader of the Volunteer (SAR) team she’s training for!
All those unanswered questions finally find their resolution, leading to some profound realizations for both Darby and Cole. I really enjoyed watching not just the main characters grow, but the supporting ones too. I would have loved to see a bit more of their past relationship—like how it all began and a little more on what led to their split—but that’s just my personal take. I’m eagerly looking forward to more from this series and the characters yet to come! Huge thanks to Audrey and Booksirens for this ARC and the chance to experience this thrilling journey. Here’s my honest review!
January 29, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
Darby clearly needed therapy after all the shit her parents (especially her mother, fuck that woman) put her through. I was honestly glad Vicky knocked some sense into her because, as much as I get it, running away is often easier than actually facing the problem.
I also really appreciated that Cole acknowledged his own faults instead of pretending to be perfect.
The traumas, then the self-awareness, made MCs more real.
Overall, it was a very good story, and I cannot wait for Vicky and Felix’s book—they’re total black cat × golden retriever energy, and I’m already obsessed.
Edit: I forget to mention, since this is going to be a series, please tell me Rick and Alicia are going to have their own story🫣these two are hot together.
Thank you to the author/publisher for the ARC. This review is my honest opinion.
Darby clearly needed therapy after all the shit her parents (especially her mother, fuck that woman) put her through. I was honestly glad Vicky knocked some sense into her because, as much as I get it, running away is often easier than actually facing the problem.
I also really appreciated that Cole acknowledged his own faults instead of pretending to be perfect.
The traumas, then the self-awareness, made MCs more real.
Overall, it was a very good story, and I cannot wait for Vicky and Felix’s book—they’re total black cat × golden retriever energy, and I’m already obsessed.
Edit: I forget to mention, since this is going to be a series, please tell me Rick and Alicia are going to have their own story🫣these two are hot together.
Thank you to the author/publisher for the ARC. This review is my honest opinion.
February 6, 2026
Darby, after experiencing a devastating job loss, is coming back home after 7 years. She is forced to face, and work for, Cole, her ex-boyfriend. Their breakup was based upon miscommunication and assumptions that adversely affected their relationship. That emotional baggage, hurt, and misunderstanding is carried through to their current relationship. They have a rocky back and forth, and when things seem to be going relatively smoothly, another situation and miscommunication tear them apart again. It was a very emotional read and I was rooting for both of them to drop all their walls and just be vulnerable enough to face what is holding them back from have a healthy relationship.
In the end we get foreshadowing as to the next book about her best friend Vicky. Looking forward to that.
In the end we get foreshadowing as to the next book about her best friend Vicky. Looking forward to that.
February 1, 2026
Second chances and finding yourself.
I really enjoyed this book! I went in with no expectations and was so pleasantly surprised. The characters all have amazing depth and the author does a great job at bringing them to life for us on page. Darby is an emotionally scarred woman who has been conditioned to believe she is easy to toss away and walk away from or replace. Cole is an exhausted young man with a hero complex and the weight of the world on his shoulders. Watching these two fight their way back to each other is relatable and moving. I appreciate the very blunt, honest tough love her best friend Vicky gives along the way and the idea that asking for help and being vulnerable doesn’t mean you’ve failed or aren’t worthy.
Great story! Highly recommend
I really enjoyed this book! I went in with no expectations and was so pleasantly surprised. The characters all have amazing depth and the author does a great job at bringing them to life for us on page. Darby is an emotionally scarred woman who has been conditioned to believe she is easy to toss away and walk away from or replace. Cole is an exhausted young man with a hero complex and the weight of the world on his shoulders. Watching these two fight their way back to each other is relatable and moving. I appreciate the very blunt, honest tough love her best friend Vicky gives along the way and the idea that asking for help and being vulnerable doesn’t mean you’ve failed or aren’t worthy.
Great story! Highly recommend
February 1, 2026
Breaking the Fall by Audrey Buchanan was such a captivating read. Cole and Darby’s second-chance love story pulled me in right away.
Darby returns home feeling broken and like she’s failed at life, but joining the Search and Rescue team becomes part of her healing journey. As she trains and pushes herself, she also reconnects with her high school boyfriend, Cole, and we get to watch both her personal growth and their relationship unfold.
I loved Darby’s journey and completely fell in love with many of the characters. The mix of adventure, healing, and romance made this book hard to put down, and I truly hope Audrey Buchanan continues writing more of their stories.
I 100% recommend this book to anyone looking for a great love story with a touch of adventure.
Darby returns home feeling broken and like she’s failed at life, but joining the Search and Rescue team becomes part of her healing journey. As she trains and pushes herself, she also reconnects with her high school boyfriend, Cole, and we get to watch both her personal growth and their relationship unfold.
I loved Darby’s journey and completely fell in love with many of the characters. The mix of adventure, healing, and romance made this book hard to put down, and I truly hope Audrey Buchanan continues writing more of their stories.
I 100% recommend this book to anyone looking for a great love story with a touch of adventure.
February 5, 2026
I really enjoyed this book and was lucky enough to be an ARC reader. Thank you for that.
We have a FMC that has some childhood trauma behavior patterns that are self sabotaging, we have a MMC that is devoted but not without some flaws. They have history which maybe could have been elaborated on or maybe that’s my super cautious nature coming out. The SAR background was awesome and gave you a bit of nervous energy in the best way. The story reflected real emotions that resonate with strong female characters in today’s world but also showed some good natured individuals that felt super healthy and unashamed in their own stories. Truthfully I just loved how simple his love was for her and that doesn’t come by often. Looking forward to the next book with sunshine Felix hopefully. ☺️
We have a FMC that has some childhood trauma behavior patterns that are self sabotaging, we have a MMC that is devoted but not without some flaws. They have history which maybe could have been elaborated on or maybe that’s my super cautious nature coming out. The SAR background was awesome and gave you a bit of nervous energy in the best way. The story reflected real emotions that resonate with strong female characters in today’s world but also showed some good natured individuals that felt super healthy and unashamed in their own stories. Truthfully I just loved how simple his love was for her and that doesn’t come by often. Looking forward to the next book with sunshine Felix hopefully. ☺️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 20, 2026
I really enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend this to a friend. As an engineer myself I found myself relating to Darby's drive and job environment, it is such a boy's club in engineering. As with a lot of second chance romance books Darby and Cole learn the root cause of the original split and learn to overcome to move forward. The story was awesome for highlighting that career isn't everything and if you really want something to work there is a way. I love the search and rescue (SAR) aspect of the book, it is something new and different. The ending was a great HEA with hints to another book in the series (I hope so!).
February 1, 2026
This was a solid story. I loved it. The FMC was confident, stronger than she thought and had a lot to give. The MMC was a leader and enjoyed his work. They needed to work through some stuff. This book is a slow burn for the two main characters trying (even if subconsciously) to get back on track. I loved the way the author laid this story out. It was well-written and easy to follow. Parts are pretty angsty. I would have preferred a duel POV but the author made it work for this story. This story was steady and parts were heartwarming and made me tear up. There was some good action and a little suspense too. Great ending. I would definitely recommend this book.
February 11, 2026
I was pulled in from the very first line and didn’t want to put this down.
The pacing is fantastic, there’s always something happening, and I never felt like I could predict where the story was going next. The rescue scenes especially had my heart pounding; they were so tense and immersive that I felt like I was right there with the characters.
I also loved getting to slowly uncover pieces of the characters’ pasts as the story unfolded. It added so much depth and made me even more invested in what happened to them.
The ending was incredibly satisfying and left me desperate for the next book. Definitely one of those reads that keeps you thinking about it after you finish.
The pacing is fantastic, there’s always something happening, and I never felt like I could predict where the story was going next. The rescue scenes especially had my heart pounding; they were so tense and immersive that I felt like I was right there with the characters.
I also loved getting to slowly uncover pieces of the characters’ pasts as the story unfolded. It added so much depth and made me even more invested in what happened to them.
The ending was incredibly satisfying and left me desperate for the next book. Definitely one of those reads that keeps you thinking about it after you finish.
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